Volume 25, Issue 19 p. 4871-4884
Minireview

Application of In Situ Product Crystallization and Related Techniques in Biocatalytic Processes

Dennis Hülsewede

Dennis Hülsewede

Biocatalytic Synthesis Group, Institute of Chemistry, University of Rostock, A-Einstein-Str. 3A, 18059 Rostock, Germany

These authors contributed equally to this work.

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Lars-Erik Meyer

Lars-Erik Meyer

Biocatalytic Synthesis Group, Institute of Chemistry, University of Rostock, A-Einstein-Str. 3A, 18059 Rostock, Germany

These authors contributed equally to this work.

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Dr. Jan von Langermann

Corresponding Author

Dr. Jan von Langermann

Biocatalytic Synthesis Group, Institute of Chemistry, University of Rostock, A-Einstein-Str. 3A, 18059 Rostock, Germany

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First published: 05 November 2018
Citations: 41

Graphical Abstract

Crystallization and biocatalysis: In situ product crystallization is a powerful technique to overcome fundamental limitations in biocatalytic reactions, for example, unfavorable reaction equilibria or product inhibitions (see figure). This Minireview presents basic process considerations within (early) process development and illustrates the high potential of crystallization with selected examples.

Abstract

This Minireview highlights the application of crystallization as a very powerful in situ product removal (ISPR) technique in biocatalytic process design. Special emphasis is placed on its use for in situ product crystallization (ISPC) to overcome unfavorable thermodynamic reaction equilibria, inhibition, and undesired reactions. The combination of these unit operations requires an interdisciplinary perspective to find a holistic solution for the underlying bioprocess intensification approach. Representative examples of successful integrated process options are selected, presented, and assessed regarding their overall productivity and applicability. In addition, parallels to the use of adsorption as a very similar technique are drawn and similarities discussed.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.